Rams add Ashton as Fev look to land Brooks

DEWSBURY RAMS have boosted their squad ahead of the crucial final quarter of the season and Featherstone Rovers are set to do the same.

Rams have brought in former Sheffield Eagles centre/forward Tom Ashton, while Rovers are expected to complete the signing of Scotland prop Sam Brooks after he was released by Widnes Vikings.

Sam Brooks, right,

Ashton has experience with Sheffield Eagles and Oldham, but is recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

“He’s not fully fit, but will be available for the eights,” said Rams coach Neil Kelly.

“He has been training with us for about a month and I have been impressed with his desire.”

Rovers are closing in on Brooks who left Widnes earlier this week.

The former Wigan Warriors academy player joined Widnes from Whitehaven last year and scored one try in five appearances.

Widnes coach Denis Betts told the club’s website: “Sam found opportunities limited this season and requested to be released from his contract in order to pursue other career opportunities.

“We have respected that decision and he leaves with our best wishes for his future career.”

Brooks said: “I have found my game time limited at the Vikings and at this stage in my career it is important to me that I play rugby league regularly.

“By moving on I will have the opportunity to pursue a career in the game elsewhere.”

The Brooks deal comes as Rovers chairman Mark Campbell says the club will do “everything in their power” to add “high-calibre” players to their ranks.

“The club has entered talks with a handful of Betfred Super League clubs as officials look to strengthen the squad prior to the start of the Qualifiers, in August.

“We cannot say too much at this stage but we are actively working to strengthen and improve the squad.

“We have recognised the areas of the team which require greater depth or improvement and, hopefully, if things go to plan, we will get the bodies we require. It is not just a case of signing anyone, from anywhere, though, we are targeting the right kind of players who can improve our roster.”